Errol K

Montblanc (poor quality goods and service)

<p>I have been a user of Montblanc products for some years, with a collection of briefcases; pens and writing folders, belts and accessories. I have regarded Montblanc as quality, in line with its image, until now.  I have a Meisterstuck double gusset leather briefcase from which I expected a lifetime of use. In October last year I discocvered a "slit" in the bottom of the case, through which articles were conceivably escaping. Examination showed that the lower stitching had cut through the leather causing the slit. My lay diagnosis was simply that the stitching had been too tight.. a manufacturing defect. The bag was just over two years old.  I dropped it in at the Motntblanc boutique on 4 October 2016. They firstly pointed out that it was beyond its two year warranty, but would submit it to Italy for inspection, as they did. The report came back "overloading, normal wear and tear". I disputed this as all I regularly convey in the bag is my Macbook, a Montblanc writing folder with pens, an iPad and cable etc accessories. It is inconceivable that a bag of that nature should fail in that manner. No budging. I eventually had to accept the R6 300 repair quote given although initially incorrectly described as a "rebuffing" of the bag.</p> <p>3 months later the bag was back from Italy and ready for collection. On examination the "slit" had been "repaired" by the application of a glue, gum or resin to hold it together, with or without additional stitching (this was not clear as the stitching was covered by the resin). Somewhat unsightly and efficacy unknown. What I had expected particularly for the price was the replacement and restitching of the lower leather component. Further the bag illustrated two large new scratches that were ceratinly not present when submitted. I have refused to accept the bag.</p> <p>In my experience the quality of the bag in its stitching and the "repair" is unacceptable. The bag should not have failed in that manner in the first place and although out of warranty by a matter some three months in my view the bag should have been repaired free of charge and returned. The nature and quality of the "repair" was even worse, particularly for R6 300!  Hardly Italian craftmanship! The response received and the issue "ducked" suggests that this is a regular problem in this product.</p> <p>Perhaps what is even worse is the arrogance of Montblanc... over loaded...wear and tear... take it or leave it.</p> <p>Whether or not I ever get the bag back properly repaired it will be the last Montblanc product I will ever buy.</p>